Graham Rowntree provides a training boost for Oakham's rugby squad

Published by Oakham School on Wednesday 11th of December 2013

Graham Rowntree, the English and British Lions forwards coach, dropped into Oakham School to give a training session ahead of their fifth round Natwest Schools Cup game.

The Leicester Tiger, England and British Lions player has eclipsed his achievements as a player by his performances as one of the games' leading forward coaches. Director of Rugby Ian Smith, who was Graham's former teammate and coach at Leicester Tigers, says, 'The same tenacity and dedication Graham had as a player has bought him even greater success as a coach. This afternoon will live long in the memory of all who had the privilege to witness the coaching session.'

Rowntree is the third former Leicester Tigers player to have coached the Oakham School squad this season, after Austin Healey and George Chuter. 'It is always a great day for rugby at Oakham when visitors call in,' says Smith. 'Especially when one of the world's finest forward coaches comes in to cast his eye over our current senior players. The eagle-eyed Rowntree offered his advice on set piece and the break down. The boys hung on his every word, and we're hoping that his session will drive them on to greater things as the end of term approaches.'

Francis Tufail Smith, the captain of school's first XV said, 'it was a great afternoon, and we would all like to thank Mr Rowntree for giving us such a memorable coaching session.'